Ah, freshly fallen snow. So pretty! Pretty heavy! Here are some ways you can avoid injury while dealing with the white stuff on your sidewalks, walkways, steps, and driveways:
Dress appropriately in non-restrictive layers, and warm up your muscles with some stretches before you begin shovelling.
Be careful of the slippery spots! Spread salt or sand for better traction.
Pushing is easier than lifting. Push the snow as far as you can towards the edge of the driveway before you lift.
When you lift, bend at your knees, not your back! Try not to twist your body when lifting and throwing.
Deep Snow: Don’t try to lift it all at once – skim a top layer off and then go back for the rest. Walk the snow over to where you want to put it, rather than throwing it.
When you first start shovelling, you will have more energy so start with piling the snow further away from the driveway/walkway and move progressively closer. That way, as you tire, you will have a shorter distance to dump the snow.
Your shovel should have an ergonomically curved handle, so you don’t have to bend as much. And, while a larger blade might persuade you that you can get the job done faster, a smaller blade makes loads lighter and easier to lift lessening your chances of injury.
Don't wait until the snowfall is over and shovel it all at once. It's easier to clear a couple of inches at a time throughout the day than waiting for the snowfall to stop and then trying to shovel it all at once.
Shovelling snow IS exercise and can be strenuous. Take breaks as needed and stay hydrated!
Might I also suggest recruiting some helpers?
Be careful & stay safe so you can enjoy the other, more fun, winter activities!
Written by: Tanya Chisling (tanya@jj.team)